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Living in Arkansas: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Arkansas | Expat Exchange
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Living in Arkansas

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Feb 21, 2023

Summary: People describe life in Arkansas as laid-back and friendly. People love the natural beauty of the state, the abundance of outdoor activities, and the friendly people. The average cost of living in Arkansas is lower than the national average, making it an attractive place to live for those on a budget. The approximate population of Arkansas is 3 million, and the largest cities are Little Rock, Fort Smith, Fayetteville, Springdale, and Jonesboro. The cons of living in Arkansas include the lack of public transportation, the limited job opportunities, and the hot and humid summers. Additionally, the state has a higher-than-average poverty rate and a lower-than-average median income.

Is the cost of living in Arkansas high?

We asked people about the cost of living in Arkansas, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Arkansas is generally lower than the United States average. The rental cost of a nicely furnished 1 bedroom apartment in Arkansas can range from about $500-850 USD per month, and for a 2 bedroom apartment the range can be from $700-1200 USD. Dining at a moderately priced restaurant in Arkansas will cost you around $15-20 USD for a full meal," said an expat in Arkansas.

What type of recreational facilities are in Arkansas?

When we asked people living in Arkansas about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"Residents of Arkansas enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, including parks, trails, and lakes. Arkansas is home to many state parks, such as Petit Jean State Park, which offers camping, hiking, and swimming. The Ozark National Forest provides opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and horseback riding. Arkansas also has several lakes, such as Lake Ouachita and Lake Greeson, which offer swimming, boating, and fishing. For those looking for a more urban experience, Arkansas has several museums, art galleries, and performing arts venues," commented one expat who moved to Arkansas.

What is the weather like in Arkansas?

"The weather in Arkansas can vary greatly depending on the season. In the summer months, temperatures can reach into the 90s with high humidity, while in the winter months temperatures can dip into the 20s and 30s. Spring and fall are generally mild with temperatures ranging from the 50s to the 70s. Arkansas also experiences a fair amount of rain throughout the year, with the most rain typically occurring in the spring and summer months," said one expat.

Are there good restaurants in Arkansas?

"One of Arkansas' favorite restaurants is Doe's Eat Place in Little Rock. Doe's is a classic steakhouse that has been serving up delicious steaks and seafood since 1941. The restaurant is known for its generous portions and friendly service. Another popular restaurant in Arkansas is The Hive in Bentonville. The Hive is a modern restaurant that serves up creative dishes with a focus on local ingredients. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and a great selection of craft beers. Finally, The Faded Rose in Little Rock is a favorite among locals. The Faded Rose is a classic Southern restaurant that serves up delicious comfort food. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and a great selection of wines," said one expat living in Arkansas.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Arkansas?

"People living in Arkansas typically buy groceries and do other shopping at local supermarkets, convenience stores, and department stores. Additionally, many people in Arkansas shop at farmers markets, specialty stores, and online retailers," remarked one expat in Arkansas.

What are the visa & residency requirements in Arkansas?

"To apply for a visa in Arkansas, a foreign national must first complete a visa application for approval at a US embassy or consulate. The applicant must provide various documents to demonstrate eligibility, such as proof of a valid passport, proof of relationship with a US citizen, information about the intended journey, medical records and background checks. Once approved, applicants may then use the visa to enter and stay in the US for a specified amount of time. To apply for residency in Arkansas, a foreign national must first qualify for an immigrant visa by securing a job offer or obtaining an immigrant family member sponsorship. The applicant must submit an affidavit of support information, proof of any required vaccinations, marriage and birth certificates for the family, and a valid passport to a US embassy or consulate. Once the application is approved, the applicant may then receive a green card to enter the US and apply for permanent residency," said an expat in Arkansas.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Arkansas?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Arkansas can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and provider. Generally, health insurance premiums in Arkansas are higher than the national average, and out-of-pocket costs for healthcare services can also be high. Additionally, Arkansas has some of the highest rates of uninsured residents in the country, which can lead to higher costs for those who do have insurance," commented one expat who moved to Arkansas.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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